Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the course the participant should be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of basic textile construction and the influence of that construction on bloodstain formation;
• Evaluate bloodstain patterns that can occur on items of clothing and other textiles;
• Recognise key bloodstain patterns on clothing and understand the mechanisms by which they were created;
• Demonstrate knowledge of the inherent limitations of BPA, particularly in relation to bloodstain patterns on fabric;
• Appropriately document bloodstained items of clothing and other porous surfaces, both photographically and in written and / or sketched format;
• Understand and utilise standardised terminology (using the SWGSTAIN glossary) when describing bloodstain patterns;
• Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the expert witness;
• Demonstrate knowledge of the requirements for the reporting of bloodstain evidence and the presentation of that evidence within the judicial environment, and;
• Demonstrate knowledge and appropriate application of OH&S protocols when assessing bloodstained items in a laboratory.